English: Bob & Joni & 60/70s America

Interdisciplinary topics examining issues in twentieth-century American culture. Representative topics include: Poe's Children; The Literary Vampire; Jazz. May repeat for credit with different content. Topics vary by offering; periodic offering at intervals that may exceed four years. Prerequisites: Three hours in English numbered 1010 to 1990; minimum Sophomore standing.

Prereqs: 3 hrs ENGL between 1010- 1990; Minimum Sophomore standing PACE students by permission and override

This course examines the work of Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell, generally considered the preeminent singer/songwriters of the 1960s and 1970s. We’ll consider how their careers evolved in that period against the backdrop of rock and roll, the Beats and other literary developments, the folk song movement of the 1950s and early ‘60s, and various countercultural movements of the 1960s and ‘70s. We’ll focus very closely on Bob and Joni’s music, sharpening our skills as listeners and interpreters, while also reading essays and books and watching films that deepen our understanding of their art, its cultural impact, and what it tells us about the creative life.

Careful reading and listening; maximum effort on every assignment; active participation in class discussions and activities; dedication to creating a productive and joyful classroom environment.

Based on class attendance and participation; in-class informal writing; formal essays; oral presentations.